FSD aims to provide a comprehensive snapshot of the non-commercial foodservice industry.

This month FoodService Director releases the results of The Big Picture, which we believe is the most comprehensive non-commercial research project ever conducted. As the name suggests, our goal is to give readers a thorough look into the non-commercial industry—not only at where the industry is currently, but, more important, a peek at where the non-commercial markets are heading. Click through to find a wealth of knowledge to help you benchmark your operation, plan for the future and perhaps get out on the forefront of the next “big thing.”

The Big Picture is an ongoing project that will run on a two-year cycle, with different topics covered each year. This year’s research covers health and wellness, the menu (breakfast, snacks and beverages), the workforce and operations (renovations, food trucks and gardens). FSD’s sister publication, FARE, also shared data from its Foodservice at Retail survey, the results of which are provided in the retail section of The Big Picture. The Foodservice at Retail survey included respondents from only the college, hospital and LTC/senior living markets. All other surveys included respondents from B&I, colleges, schools, hospitals and LTC/senior living. (For all surveys, the LTC/senior living market comprises long-term care facilities such as rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, assisted living units and continuing care retirement communities.)

All surveys were conducted in 2012 via email. Every survey, except FARE, had a 300-person sample size. FARE had more than 150. Special thanks go to Barbara Killeen, research analyst.

We know there’s a lot to digest with this project, so our hope is that you keep coming back to this data as a reference guide to help plan menus and operational strategies in the years to come.

The Big Picture data is presented in several ways online. Each section has been collected as as a Snapshots, which includes links to each individual component of the section. You can also check out the related content links at the bottom of each page to browse through the information. Links to each Snapshots are below.

City officials are weighing changes to school menus less than one year after earlier changes drew parent criticism. Officials say those menu changes were not final, and an advisory board is suggesting healthier, fresher dishes and a more expansive in-class breakfast program.